At a National Conference on Migration in Nepal this week, IOM presented findings from its recently concluded study on the socio-economic and financial profile of migrants to India.
“Unfortunately, the Nepal – India migration corridor is still excluded from current foreign employment policies. It is critical for IOM to highlight this as many issues arise causing vulnerability for Nepali migrants,” said IOM Nepal National Programme Officer Pravina Gurung.
The findings stressed issues of seasonal and long-term migrants to India particularly relating to lack of data, vulnerability of workers employed in the informal sector, and problems relating to remittance transfers and lack of social security coverage.
IOM also showcased best practices on migration and rural development through the Homestay Initiative by Migrants and Families, a project supported by the Joint Migration and Development Initiative programme in Nepal, as well as its findings on climate change and migration.
The event brought over 200 representatives from 75 districts across Nepal, including the Minister of Labour and Employment, the Constituent Assembly members, the Planning Commission, development partners and the private sector. It was hosted by the National Network on Safe Migration led by civil society organizations and the Government of Nepal, with support from IOM and related agencies.
“Current outflow of labour migrants from Nepal is unprecedented due to dwindling livelihood opportunities. We recognize the immense contribution of migrant remittances in a sustaining local economy and remain committed to promoting migrants well-being as enshrined in the new constitution of Nepal,” said Minster for Labour and Employment Surya Man Gurung.
The conference was funded by the Joint Migration and Development Initiative program implemented by IOM in Nepal.
